Charles II : Art & Power

Examining the reigns of Charles II (1600-85) and James II (1685-8), this richly illustrated book accompanying the exhibition at the Queen's Gallery Buckingham Palace focuses on the art and culture of the Restoration court. From the development of an ‘English Baroque’ to the use of court ritual and decorative art objects, the authors explore the themes of power and passion during the reigns of these Restoration monarchs.

This beautiful publication not only showcases the replacement Crown Jewels, made the for the coronation of Charles II in 1661, but also includes Charles II’s collection of Italian Old Master paintings, drawings by Leonardo da Vinci and the spectacular furnishings of the palaces of Whitehall and St James’s.

From covert meetings between spies and elaborate art heists to the beginnings of love affairs and tender moments of self-reflection, museums have provided some of the most memorable scenes in film. In our latest...